Race and society

Our librarians selected these resources to illuminate history.

Recommend reading and more

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Black firsts

 Jessie Carney Smith
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Long past summer

 Noué Kirwan
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The Black Panther Party

 David F. Walker
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Wash day diaries

 Jamila Rowser

Watch

View these documentaries and videos to explore various histories and social issues.

Notes of a native son

James Baldwin was an American novelist and social critic whose essays in “Notes of a Native Son” explored race, sex, and class distinctions.

Octavia E. Butler

Explore the works of science fiction visionary Octavia E. Butler, whose novels, such as “Parable of the Sower,” influenced the growing popularity of Afrofuturism.

Toni Morrison’s “Beloved”

Dig into Toni Morrison’s novel, "Beloved," which tells the story of a family of formerly enslaved people whose home is haunted by an abusive spirit.

Explore

Explore articles and webpages about the immigrant experience, Black history in the U.S., and more.

BlackPast

Explore African American History, genealogy resource, and learn about African American leaders and innovators throughout history. BlackPast promotes greater understanding through this knowledge to generate constructive change in our society.

Carter G. Woodson

Learn about Carter G. Woodson, the author, editor, publisher, and historian who was known as the “Father of Black History.” He was the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History and is the reason Black History Month is recognized internationally today.

Black in Oregon (1840–1870)

This digital exhibit uses archival records to illuminate the courage and resilience of black pioneers who built lives for themselves and their families in Oregon despite the many barriers they faced.

Listen

Listen to podcasts on topics from different cultural perspectives, discussions on politics from different points of view, and stories from across the country.

History Daily

Every weekday, Lindsay Graham takes you back in time to explore a momentous moment that happened ‘on this day’ in history.

Drunk Black History

Comedians Brandon Collins and Gordon Baker-Bone host this interactive show where prominent Black historical figures finally get their due.

Short History of…

History is full of the extraordinary. Each week, find yourself transported back in time and immersed in a barely believable tale.

Recommend reading for children & teens

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An American Story

 Kwame Alexander
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Black Boy Joy

 Kwame Mbalia
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Inheritance: A Visual Poem

 Elizabeth Acevedo
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You Truly Assumed

 Laila Sabreen

Artists and museums

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture
It was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans.
Spotlight on Latinx Illustrators
Learn more about a collection of Latinx creators and how they connect with readers through their work.
SHAREE MILLER — ARTIST HIGHLIGHT
St. Thomas-bred, Jersey City-based Sharee Miller is a graduate of Pratt Institute and the author and illustrator of Princess Hair and Don't Touch My Hair.

Activities and crafts

online Lotería
Lotería is a traditional game of chance, similar to bingo, but using images on a deck of cards instead of numbered ping pong balls.
Alebrijes coloring sheets
Learn about and color fantastical Alebrijes (whimsical creatures or spirit animals) and animals native to Mexico.
Axolotl mask and coloring sheets
Learn more about these cute critters with a fun activity and facts sheet.

Local resources

Explore local organizations that seek to support and empower Southern Oregon’s communities of color.

BLACK SOUTHERN OREGON ALLIANCE
Learn more
BASE: BLACK ALLIANCE & SOCIAL EMPOWERMENT
Learn more
COALITION FOR COMMUNITIES OF COLOR
Learn more